Boston Celtics legend Bill Russell was honored at the inaugural NBA Awards, and the Hall of Fame big man was given the first ever NBA lifetime achievement award. Russell is an 11-time NBA champion, five-time NBA MVP, 12-time NBA All-Star and of course, he has the honor of being the name on the NBA Finals MVP award. While the accolades are great, Russell also has the distinction of being the first African-American head coach in all of the four major sports, and he was a prominent figure in the Civil Rights movement.
There’s no doubt that Russell is the obvious selection for this award being a pioneer for the NBA and setting the stage for so many that would follow him. And those who followed in his footsteps were all on stage at the NBA Awards to honor Russell. Unfortunately for them, Russell was ready for all of them, and he had a message for the five hall of fame big men.
Bill Russell to 5 legendary NBA big men: "I would kick your ass!"
What a legend.#NBAAwards pic.twitter.com/CjigyN3C4C
— Def Pen Hoops (@DefPenHoops) June 27, 2017
Check out the full dedication for Russell including his acceptance speech.
